The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word CANISTERS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
C
A
N
I
S
T
E
R
S
More clues leading to the result CANISTERS
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Caddies" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case caddies = canisters.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does CANISTERS mean?
CANISTERS noun- A cylindrical or rectangular container usually of lightweight metal, plastic, or laminated pasteboard used for holding a dry product (as tea, crackers, flour, matches).
- Any of various cylindrical metal receptacles usually with a removable close-fitting top.
- A special short range antipersonnel projectile consisting of a casing of light metal, loaded with preformed submissiles such as flechettes or steel balls. The casing is designed to open just beyond the muzzle of the weapon, dispersing the submissiles.
- A component of canister type protective mask containing a mechanical filter and chemical filling to filter, neutralize and/or absorb toxic chemical, biological and radiological agents.
- A projectile component containing colored or screening smoke or riot control agent composition.